If you take a conventional mega-ship through the Panama Canal, you will experience this engineering marvel first-hand but you will see few — if any — brilliantly-hued birds, chattering monkeys, lush Central American jungle or indigenous Indian tribes.

For that you need to take a small cruise ship, such as Cruise West’s 100-passenger Pacific Explorer. The company is best known for Alaska and British Columbia small ship cruises, although you’ll find their vessels on some of the world’s most exotic South Pacific itineraries. And Cruise West’s “Between Two Seas” Panama Canal/Costa Rica sailings have been attracting nature lovers for years.

The company has expanded the 2008/09 cruise season by adding two additional departures, enticing new optional land tours and six theme cruises. Cruise West passengers may choose from two holiday cruises, two PENTAX photography cruises (Dec. 8, 08 and March 2, 09) or the option to travel in the company of a Panama Canal expert on two departures.

Frankly, I’m willing to forgo the casino, art auctions and Las Vegas-style floor shows for the chance to see nature p close, visit a local Indian tribes and tour rainforests accessible to few tourists.

Sailing between Panama City and San Jose, Costa Rica the 10-day voyages takes passengers to the San Blas Islands and a Kuna Indian Village, Portobelo and through the entire Panama Canal. The ship continues to the remote Emberá Village in the Darién Jungle, Coiba National Park, Golfo Dulce, Caletas Beach and Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its prolific wildlife and bird viewing.

The optional land tours include a three day visit to Monteverde Cloud Forests; a five-day stay in the Tortuguero National Park and a six-day Costa Rica tour.

Departure days are Nov. 10, Dec. 11, Dec. 29, 2008; Jan 16, Feb. 3; Feb. 21; Mar 11, Mar 29; April 16, May 4; Nov. 9 and Dec. 28, 2009. Per person, double occupancy fares start at $3799 including gratuities, zodiac excursions ashore and many activities ashore. Visit Cruise West’s web site for additional information.

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